by Winifred Gallagher Penguin Press, 2012. 250 pgs. Nonfiction
In her newest book, acclaimed behavioral science writer, Winifred Gallagher shows through examples of science experiments and evidence found in ancient archeological sites that humans have always had an affinity for novelty and change. Our desire to explore and experiment with the new is unique to our species, but can vary greatly from one person to the next. The majority of us are “neophiles,” but around 15% of the population are what Gallagher calls “neophiliacs,” who are obsessed with new experiences. Another 15% are “neophobes,” who feel anxiety and discomfort in new experiences and change. It is this balance that actually benefits our well-being.
Gallagher concludes that our fascination with the new is a great strength to the human species, but that we have gotten off track in the last 30 years with the mass amounts of new information bombarding us every day. Her book explains that we need get back to focusing on what really matters and shows how we can navigate more skillfully through this rapidly changing world.
This is an fascinating piece of science writing that I would recommend reading if you enjoyed other books like Willpower and Quiet.
AJ
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